What does Daniel 5:16 teach about the importance of spiritual gifts? Context of Daniel 5:16 Belshazzar’s feast is interrupted by the mysterious handwriting on the wall. Unable to understand it, the king summons Daniel: “But I have heard that you are able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems. Now if you can read the inscription and give me its interpretation, you will be clothed in purple, wear a gold chain around your neck, and be given the third highest position in the kingdom.” God-Given Ability Recognized by the World • Daniel’s reputation for Spirit-empowered insight (“able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems”) precedes him. • Even a pagan king acknowledges the supernatural nature of Daniel’s gift. • Cross reference: Genesis 41:38-39—Pharaoh recognises Joseph’s God-given wisdom. Spiritual Gifts Open Doors for Witness • The crisis of the handwriting creates a platform for truth. • Daniel’s gift places him before kings (cf. Proverbs 18:16). • Through his interpretation (vv. 17-28), Daniel proclaims God’s sovereignty and judgment—demonstrating that gifts are given to exalt the Lord, not the recipient. Gifts Point to the Giver, Not to Earthly Rewards • Belshazzar offers prestige and riches, yet Daniel answers, “Keep your gifts for yourself, and give your rewards to another” (v.17). • Daniel’s refusal highlights: – Spiritual gifts are not merchandise. – The servant of God seeks eternal reward, not earthly gain (Hebrews 11:24-26). • Principle: Gifts used for personal advancement lose their spiritual power and purpose. Illustrations of the Same Principle • Peter and John refuse payment for healing (Acts 8:18-23). • Paul declines financial dependence to avoid hindering the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:12-18). The Ultimate Purpose of Spiritual Gifts • God’s revelation through Daniel brings immediate conviction and fulfillment of prophecy (vv. 30-31). • Compare 1 Peter 4:10-11—“Use whatever gift he has received to serve others… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Implications for Today’s Believers • Identify your gift: “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Cultivate credibility: Daniel’s consistent integrity made his gift believable (Daniel 6:4). • Serve selflessly: Resist the lure of applause or profit. • Speak truth boldly: Gifts are most effective when coupled with courage and holiness. • Expect God to create divine appointments; be ready when crisis opens doors. Key Takeaways • Spiritual gifts are God-bestowed abilities that even unbelievers can recognise. • Their primary function is to reveal God’s character and message. • Faithful stewardship of gifts rejects selfish gain and seeks God’s glory above all. |
    |